Side Effects Of Taking Magnesium Supplements

Side Effects of Taking Magnesium Supplements

Oct 11, 2010 | By Naomi Parks

Magnesium is present in bones, organs and bodily tissues and is the fourth most-abundant mineral in the body, according to the National Institutes of Health's Office of Dietary Supplements. It's a co-factor in more than 300 biochemical reactions and also maintains muscle and nerve function and stabilizes blood pressure. Many foods contain magnesium, including almonds, spinach, cereal, yogurt, kidney beans, wheat germ, bananas, bread and chocolate pudding. Magnesium deficiencies are common, however, because the body requires a relatively high level of the mineral regularly. Magnesium deficiencies are treatable with supplements.

Gastrointestinal Distubances

Consistent with the fact that magnesium is a primary ingredient in laxatives, magnesium supplements can cause abdominal cramping and diarrhea. "The Complete Guide to Vitamins, Herbs and Supplements" indicates that this can occur after taking as little as 350 mg of the mineral. The presence of kidney problems prolongs and intensifies these and other effects associated with magnesium toxicity.

Hypermagnesemia

Excess blood serum levels of magnesium from overuse of supplements can result in hypermagnesemia, which is magnesium hypertoxicity. Initially, hypermagnesemia dramatically reduces blood pressure. If the condition persists, muscle weakness, difficulty breathing, disturbances in cardiac rhythm, lethargy, confusion, kidney failure and cardiac arrest can result. Hypermagnesemia occurs only with extremely high doses and often results from antacid and laxative abuse.

Nutrient Imbalance

Once introduced to the body, magnesium competes with other nutrients for absorption, according to "The Complete Guide to Vitamins, Herbs and Supplements." That's why regular use of magnesium supplements can cause vitamin and mineral depletion, especially in the absence of a balanced diet or other vitamin supplements. Magnesium interacts with calcium and vitamin B6 in particular, inhibiting their absorption. For that reason, those taking magnesium supplements are often advised to take calcium and vitamin B6 as well.